Shelvey's The Skipper Once More

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Jonjo Shelvey will captain Newcastle United again this weekend against Bournemouth in the continued absence of injured skipper Fabricio Coloccini.

Argentine centre-back Coloccini is currently nursing a slight calf strain which also ruled him out of Wednesday's trip to Stoke.

And Magpies head coach Steve McClaren confirmed that January signing Shelvey will lead the team out against the Cherries at St. James' Park in Premier League action on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

"Colo and Chancel Mbemba are both a no," said the boss.

"Jonjo will wear it (the captain's armband) again tomorrow and he has to be as vocal and be the leader as much as he was on Wednesday and in every other game.

"We brought Jonjo here because not only is he a good player, but he's a good character as well.

"He's a winner and you can see that in his performances because he gets frustrated and angry with himself and his teammates."

McClaren revealed he will make a late decision over the fitness of winger Andros Townsend, who has a minor hamstring complaint.

However, Dutch pair Siem de Jong and Vurnon Anita will be in contention for a place in the side, having recovered from respective eye and hamstring injuries.

"We're assessing him (Townsend)," said McClaren.

"We don't want to risk him because it's a hamstring and he needs his speed, which is important for that. We are assessing that and will look tomorrow.

"We have got Siem de Jong back in the squad, along with Vurnon Anita."